It may have just been a pre-season scrimmage game, but it’s still a good way to start out the year.

The Jackson County Panthers boys basketball team defeated the Banks County Leopards 71-64 last week in pre-season play.

The Panthers took an early lead, 14-7, in the first quarter, and then held on to lead 32-22 at the half. In the second half, Banks County closed to within seven while the Panthers held a 47-40 lead. Despite a hard challenge, Jackson County came away with the 71-64 victory.

“We shot 70 percent from the free throw line and did a good job getting to the line,” said coach Britt Beaver.

Last year, Jackson County went 1-3 against Banks County.

“Coach (Mike) Ruth always has his guys ready to play and this has been a good game for us over the past couple of years,” Beaver said. “It was nice to start the year with a win over a good team.”

Beaver said he was also happy to have four players in double figures in the game.

“To be successful this year we have to have several people step up. Joseph has led us in scoring for two years but we can’t get it done unless everyone contributes.”

The Panthers struggled early on the boards, with Banks doing a good job on rebounding.

“That is something we will need to work on,” Beaver said. “I think we are better this year. We have laid a solid foundation and each year built on that. I feel good about the stability we have provided these kids. Hopefully we will improve our record. We want to be very competitive in our region games.”

Jackson County was scheduled to get their season underway on Tuesday in the Warrior Classic tournament against host White County. Results were unavailable at press time.

For more on this story, see Wednesday's edition of The Jackson Herald or The Braselton News.

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